A Buddhist Priest of the Shaolin order named Wong Long (photo of his statue shown on this page) created the Praying Mantis Kung Fu system more than 350 years ago. Legend has it that Wong Long was inspired when he saw a battle to the death between a cicada and a praying mantis. According to oral history Wong Long was amazed by the precise and effective fighting skills displayed by the mantis against its giant opponent. He captured the praying mantis and copied its movements. Later on Wong Long added footwork from Monkey Style and integrated select movements and techniques from as many as 17 additional kung fu styles. He continued to develop and perfect the art throughout his long life.

Wong Long chose deciple Sing Sil to be his successor. Sing Sil’s successor was Lee San Chine. Lee San Chine passed the art along to Wong Wing Sang. Wong’s successor was Fang Yuk Toung. Toung passed the art down to Lo Kwang Yu.

Lo Kwan relocated to Hong Kong where he taught 7-Star Praying Mantis kung fu at the Hong Kong branch of the Ching Mo Association. Lo Kwon died in the 1940s after a long and successful career.